For Wish Kid Evin of Rensselaer, the perfect wish consisted of wide-open skies, the sound of water, and the chance to fish in some of the most beautiful places in the country. Fascinated by fishing, thermal ponds, and the quiet beauty of nature, Evin wished to explore Yellowstone National Park with his family! 

The journey began with a special send-off. United Airlines made sure Evin felt like a VIP, inviting him to board early and even meet the pilot before takeoff. Flying from Albany to Jackson, Wyoming, Evin and his family were filled with excitement and anticipation for the days ahead. 

Their home base for the week was Parade Rest Guest Ranch: a true getaway with no TVs, a plus for Evin and his family.  

“The best way to disconnect and take it all in,” Evin’s mom shared. “The enormity of it is just breathtaking.”  

Over the next few days, Evin explored Yellowstone’s wonders. He marveled at the geysers that paint the air with steam, saw grizzly bears and wolves that are unable to live in the wild at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, and rode the legendary Circle of Fire tour: a full day of discovering Yellowstone Lake, Hayden Valley, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and witnessing the famous Old Faithful erupting into the sky. 

Fishing was a highlight for Evin, who smiled from ear to ear while posing with his catch. Out on the water at Bridge Bay Marina, he spent hours doing what he loves most in the most beautiful setting imaginable. 

“It was as if his wish couldn’t have been better timed,” his mom said. “It was everything he spoke of in the PICU during those first few days — green as far as the eye could see, and quiet. For us, it was the quiet that allowed us to take a deep breath and quietly say to ourselves — he did it!” 

By the end of the trip, Yellowstone had given Evin not just the fishing and wildlife he’d dreamed about, but also a week of freedom, a gift he will always cherish.